Character.AI removes Disney characters from platform after studio issues warning

Character.AI removes Disney characters from platform after studio issues warning

Character.AI said Tuesday that it has removed Disney characters from its chatbot platform after the studio asked the developer to stop using its copyrighted characters without authorization.

The studio in Burbank, California, sent a cease-and-desist letter to Character.AI, according to a copy of the letter obtained and reviewed by NBC News.

“In sum, Character.ai chose to systematically reproduce, monetize, and exploit Disney’s characters, that are protected by copyrights and trademarks, without any authorization, in a way that is anathema to the very essence of the Disney brand and legacy," the letter, which is dated Sept. 18, states.

A spokesperson for Disney did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Axios was first to report the news of the letter, which was sent to Character.AI by a law firm representing Disney.